Your Guide to Cosmetology Licensure in Illinois
Cosmetologists seeking to practice in the state of Illinois must fulfill certain eligibility criteria.
Earning a cosmetology license in Illinois not only elevates your professional credibility but also ensures legal compliance and unlocks exciting opportunities for career advancement. Discover how you can take the next step toward achieving licensure and setting yourself apart in the industry.
Illinois License Requirements
Basic Requirements:
You must be at least 16 years old to become a licensed cosmetologist in Illinois.
You must have received a high school diploma or its equivalent to become a licensed cosmetologist in Illinois.
You must complete a 1 hour, one time Continuing Education (CE) course on Domestic Violence.
Is Liability Insurance Required?
Liability insurance is not required to practice cosmetology in Illinois; however, it is still highly recommended to have professional liability insurance.
Illinois Cosmetology Insurance
Professional liability insurance is essential for cosmetologists because it protects them from claims related to their services.
Here are some common mishaps that professional liability insurance would protect you from:
- Allergic Reactions to Products
- Skin or Scalp Burns
- Injuries from Treatments
- Failure to Deliver Expected Results
- Negligence Claims
- Cross-Contamination Risks
- Breach of Confidentiality
Protecting your career and reputation with professional liability insurance is not just a smart choice; it’s a necessity. In the beauty industry, even the smallest error—whether it’s an allergic reaction, a slip of the scissors, or a chemical burn—can lead to devastating consequences and expensive legal battles. Without insurance, you risk losing everything you've worked hard to build.
Professional liability insurance is your shield against claims of negligence, accidental injury, or unsatisfactory results, giving you the peace of mind to focus on what matters most—your craft and your clients.
Don’t let an unforeseen incident jeopardize your future.
Secure reliable coverage today and ensure you’re always protected because your success deserves to be safeguarded.
How to Get Licensed
Steps to get licensed in Illinois:
- Enroll in a Cosmetology School: Complete 1,500 hours of cosmetology training at an Illinois-approved school.
- Pass the Licensing Exam: You must pass the Illinois Cosmetology Examination, which tests both theoretical and practical knowledge. There is an exam fee of $107.
- Apply for Your License: Submit your application with proof of completed hours, exam results, and pay the required fees to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
- Get Licensed: Once all these requirements are met, Illinois will issue you your cosmetology license!
Note: If you are an applicant authorizing individuals or companies to contact IDFPR on your behalf, you must fill out the Third Party Authorization Form.
License Renewal & Continuing Education
How to renew your cosmetology license in the state of Illinois:
- Renewal Frequency: Renew your license every 2 years, on odd-numbered years.
- Renewal Deadline: On each odd-numbered year, you must renew your license by September 30th.
- Renewal Fee: You must pay the renewal fee of $25.
- Continuing Education Requirements: You must complete 14 hours of Continuing Education (CE).
Reciprocity for Out-of-State Licenses
Already Licensed in Another State?
Illinois does not have an exact reciprocity agreement; however, you can follow these steps to transfer your current license and become a licensed cosmetologist in the state of Illinois:
- Verify Eligibility: Ensure your current license is active, in good standing, and that your state’s requirements are similar to Illinois’s 1,500 training hours.
- Submit an Endorsement Application: Complete the "Cosmetology by Endorsement" application with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
- Provide License Verification: Submit proof of your current out-of-state license, including training hours and exam scores, sent directly from your licensing board.
- Pay the Required Fee: Pay the endorsement fee (typically around $45, but verify as fees may change).
- Complete Additional Requirements: If Illinois’s requirements are higher than your existing state license, you may need additional training or exams.
FAQs
It typically takes 10 business days, but for some professions it may take 4-6 weeks.
Illinois employs a large number of cosmetologists, ranging from 6,680 - 25,540.
Cosmetologists in Illinois have an average salary of $25,020 - $35,340. This can change based on what services you provide and how big your clientele list is.
